Locals foil suicide attack on mosque in Lakki Marwat

LAKKI MARWAT: An alleged Khawarij operative attempting to carry out a suicide attack on a mosque during Friday prayers was killed by local residents before he could reach his target, according to local sources on Friday.

The attacker reportedly sought to enter a mosque packed with worshippers for congregational prayers with the intention of carrying out a suicide bombing.

Sources said alert and courageous local citizens intervened in time and successfully neutralised the suspect before he could penetrate the mosque premises.

However, explosives attached to the attacker’s motorcycle detonated during the incident, triggering a powerful blast that resulted in the martyrdom of a five-year-old girl.

At least five other people, including children, sustained injuries in the explosion and were shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.

Following the blast, security forces and law enforcement agencies swiftly cordoned off the area and launched a comprehensive search and clearance operation to ensure no other threats remained.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack and collecting evidence from the scene.

The incident sparked widespread anger and condemnation among residents of Lakki Marwat, who expressed outrage over the targeting of worshippers and innocent civilians.

Further details regarding the identity of the attacker and the nature of the operation are awaited as investigations continue.